Carr Joins the Frozen Yogurt Franchise Amid National Expansion
16 Handles, a dessert and frozen yogurt franchise, has appointed Patti Carr as vice president of operations. Carr brings more than four decades of franchising experience to the role, serving in leadership positions at K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel, Mrs. Fields and Krispy Kreme. She now spearheads 16 Handles’ field operations and franchisee support.
“I was really drawn to the opportunity to return to my roots,” Carr said. “Quick service restaurants have been a big part of my career. After connecting with CEO Neil Hershman on LinkedIn, I found out that he was looking to build his team. Over the course of a couple of months, I spoke with him about his values and vision for the brand. I have always believed in loving what you do and respecting the people around you, and 16 Handles checked every box.”
Carr looks forward to contributing to 16 Handles’ momentum by supporting franchisees. “For me, 16 Handles’ long-term growth will come from staying focused on attracting top-tier franchisees, delivering best-in-class operational support and training, and executing efficient, streamlined openings.”
Carr said franchise operations can be optimized by putting the right people in the right positions. “After that, franchisors should develop world-class support and training from the time franchisees sign their agreements. Engaging and collaborating with the franchise system while upholding brand integrity and enforcing standards is also key. If a franchisor can get their franchisees to follow the proven systems in place, then performance and consistency follow.”
A Growing Team
Carr is joined on the leadership team by vice president of training Donna Coupe. These new hires come during a period of expansion, including 16 Handles’ highest-growth year to date in 2025, as well as the opening of eight locations and the signing of 25 new franchise agreements. The brand has already signed multiple franchise agreements in 2026, including in Georgia, Texas, Rhode Island, New York, Illinois and Connecticut.
Hershman said Carr and Coupe are “proven franchise operators who know how to build scalable systems, develop high-performing teams, and protect the guest experience so that every new store opens strong and stays strong.”
Outside of work, Carr and her husband are passionate about rescuing German shepherds, and they enjoy spending time with family and friends.
About 16 Handles
16 Handles became the first self-serve frozen yogurt shop in New York City after opening in Manhattan’s East Village in 2008. Since then, the brand has expanded to 40 locations across the country. Its menu includes frozen yogurt, ice cream, vegan soft serve, drinks and other treats, such as cakes, take-home pints and DŌ gourmet edible cookie dough.
